Abstract:
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This paper presents a study of the lasting effects of Portland cement and concrete’s
acceptance as a restoration material after the technology came of age in the early 20th
century. The paper will highlight the development of modern cement technology while
also explaining how it came to be accepted as a viable option in the restoration of
heritage structures, and the eventual repercussions of such techniques.
Presented in the document are the techniques of early restorations and the most
common methods utilized during the grand period of reinforced concrete intervention
that occurred during the mid 20th century. After highlighting the various techniques, the
mechanisms and modes of deterioration that have plagued such affected structures in
the years following intervention will be presented, and likely causes will be identified.
Forms of chemical, mechanical, and structural deficiencies all related to the addition of
reinforced concrete in systems will be mentioned, and relevant examples will be cited
through the use of case studies, with hopes of bringing greater clarity to previously
mentioned information within the document. Case studies will be presented where
lessons were learned from failures resulting from inadequate restoration practices.
The document will conclude with a summary of all presented material and suggestions
on what was learned throughout in the years following case studies where failure,
deterioration, and premature degradation were induced by concrete restoration
materials. An attempt will be made to suggest steps in the future to ensure that
problems are avoided in future restorations, and also what must be done with existing
altered structures that may be vulnerable in the future. Also, the question of whether
reinforced concrete has a place in the field of restoration technology will be discussed. |